Dreaming of an East African adventure that combines the iconic savannas of Kenya, the primate paradise of Uganda, and the vibrant hills of Rwanda? You might think seeing all three in one trip is impossible, but with careful planning, a 10-day whirlwind tour can give you an unforgettable taste of this incredible region.
This itinerary is fast-paced, action-packed, and designed for the adventurer who wants to see it all. We'll focus on the absolute "must-do" experiences: a classic safari, a life-changing gorilla trek, and a visit to one of Africa's most inspiring capital cities. Let's get planning!
Is 10 Days Really Enough for Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda?
This is the most common question, and the honest answer is: it's tight, but yes. This 10-day itinerary is a "taster" trip. You won't see everything, but you will experience the absolute best of each country. Be prepared for early mornings, travel days, and a schedule that keeps you moving. If you're looking for a relaxing, slow-paced vacation, this isn't it. If you're looking for the adventure of a lifetime, read on.
What's the Best Time to Visit East Africa?
For this specific itinerary, the best time to travel is during the two main dry seasons:
Long Dry Season: June to September
Short Dry Season: December to February
Travel is easiest during these months, with less rain, better road conditions, and prime wildlife viewing. Gorilla trekking is possible year-round, but the trails are much more manageable when dry.
What Visa Do I Need for Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda?
This is the single most important piece of pre-trip planning! You do not need three separate visas.
You need the East African Tourist Visa (EATV). This is a single, multiple-entry visa that covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for 90 days. You must apply for it in advance online from the official immigration portal of the country you will enter first.
Why is the East African Tourist Visa Better Than Single Visas?
The EATV was created in 2014 by the three partner nations to promote regional tourism and make travel between them seamless.
It's Cheaper: The EATV costs $100. Buying three separate single-entry visas would cost $150 or more.
It's simpler: One application, one payment, one visa.
It's Fast at Borders: It makes land border crossings (like the one we'll do from Uganda to Rwanda) much faster and easier.
Important Note: The visa allows for multiple entries within the three-country bloc. If you leave the bloc (for example, by visiting neighboring Tanzania), your EATV will be voided.
What Vaccinations Do I Need for This Trip?
You must check with your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip. The Yellow Fever vaccination and certificate are mandatory for entry into all three countries (or when crossing between them). You will likely also be advised on Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and anti-malarial medication.
What's the Difference Between Nairobi's Airports (NBO vs. Wilson)?
This is a key piece of logistics. Nairobi has two main airports:
Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO): This is the large international airport you will fly into from your home country.
Wilson Airport (WIL): This is a smaller, domestic airport that is the hub for almost all safari flights to the Masai Mara.
The transfer between NBO and Wilson takes about 60-90 minutes, depending on Nairobi's infamous traffic. Your itinerary must account for this transfer time.
Do I Really Need Travel Insurance for Gorilla Trekking?
Yes, absolutely. And you must check the fine print. Many standard travel insurance policies do not cover "adventure activities" like trekking at high altitudes. You need a policy that specifically includes:
Adventure Activity Coverage: For the trek itself.
Medical Evacuation & Repatriation: This is critical. Bwindi is a remote area, and if you get injured, you will need to be airlifted to a capable hospital. This can cost tens of thousands of dollars without insurance.
What Currency Do I Need? And How Much Cash Should I Bring?
This is a three-part answer:
Local Currencies: Each country has its own: the Kenyan Shilling (KES), Ugandan Shilling (UGX), and Rwandan Franc (RWF). You cannot use one country's currency in another.
US Dollars (USD): USD is the unofficial "tourist currency." It's widely accepted for large expenses like hotels, park fees, and tips for guides. Crucially, you must bring USD notes that are from 2006 or newer. Older bills are often rejected.
How Much Cash: Assuming you have pre-paid your accommodation, flights, and permits, a good rule of thumb is to bring $500 - $700 USD per person in cash. This will cover tips, souvenirs, drinks, and meals not included in your plan. Get small amounts of local currency from an ATM in each country for small purchases (like coffee or market stalls).
What Social Etiquette Should I Know, Especially for Rwanda?
While all three countries are welcoming, Rwanda Cultural Etiquette for Traveller has some specific customs to be aware of:
Greetings are Important: Always offer a polite "Muraho" (hello) or "Amakuru" (how are you?) before asking a question.
Dress Modestly: This is especially true in rural areas and at the Genocide Memorial. Avoid very short shorts or skirts and keep your shoulders covered. Kigali is more modern, but respect is always appreciated.
Ask Before Taking Photos: Never take a picture of a person (especially children) without their explicit permission.
Cleanliness: Rwanda is famously clean. Do not litter. The last Saturday of every month is Umuganda, a national day of community cleanup. Be mindful of this pride.
What Are the Travel Times Between Key Destinations?
On a 10-day trip, time is your most valuable asset. While long-distance buses are an option for budget backpackers, they will consume multiple days of your itinerary. This plan relies on a mix of short flights and strategic drives. Here's a realistic breakdown:
Nairobi to Masai Mara: 5-6 hour drive (225-270 km) OR a 45-60 minute flight. The drive is scenic, crossing the Great Rift Valley.
Nairobi (NBO) to Entebbe (EBB): A short regional flight of about 1.5 hours.
Entebbe to Bwindi Forest: A very long 9-10 hour drive (500+ km) OR a 1h 10m domestic flight (Entebbe to Kihihi Airstrip). We strongly recommend the flight.
Bwindi Forest to Kigali (Rwanda): A 4-5 hour drive (170-180 km), including the border crossing. This is much faster than driving back to Entebbe.
Kigali to Lake Kivu (Day Trip): A pleasant 2.5-hour drive (156 km).
What Does a 10-Day Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda Itinerary Look Like?
Days 1-3: Kenya (Safari in Masai Mara)
Days 4-6: Uganda (Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi)
Days 7-9: Rwanda (Culture & History in Kigali)
Day 10: Departure
Day 1-3: What to Do in Masai Mara and Nairobi?
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi (NBO)
Afternoon: Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). Your first activities are purely logistical: pass through immigration (have your pre-approved EATV printout ready), collect your bags, and get some local currency (Kenyan Shillings) from an ATM.
Evening: Meet your pre-booked driver and transfer to your hotel. If you arrive early and have energy, a great first stop is the Giraffe Centre, where you can feed Rothschild's giraffes from a raised platform. Otherwise, check in, have dinner, and get a good night's sleep.
Day 2: The Great Masai Mara
Morning: Wake up early. You have two options:
By Road (5-6 hours): Begin the scenic drive to the Masai Mara. Your driver will stop at the Great Rift Valley Viewpoint for incredible photos.
By Air (1 hour): Take a quick transfer to the local Wilson Airport (WIL) for your short flight to a Mara airstrip, flying over the vast landscape.
Afternoon: Arrive at your safari lodge or camp in time for lunch. After settling in, you'll meet your guide and embark on your very first afternoon game drive (around 4 PM). This is a great time to find elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest.
Evening: As the sun begins to set, you'll stop for a classic "sundowner" drink in the bush. Return to the lodge for a hearty dinner and listen to the sounds of the savanna.
Day 3: Full-Day Safari
Morning: After an early 6 AM breakfast, you'll head out for a full-day game drive. This is your "Big 5" day (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino). Your guide will track animals, communicate with other guides via radio, and take you to the best spots, perhaps finding a lion pride resting after a night's hunt.
Afternoon: Enjoy a unique picnic lunch under a shady acacia tree in the middle of the reserve. Continue your game drive, perhaps heading towards the Mara River to see hippos and crocodiles. If it's the Great Migration season (July-Sept), you'll spend your time scanning the riverbanks for a potential crossing.
Evening: Return to your lodge at sunset, tired but thrilled. Enjoy your final dinner in the Mara.
Day 4: How to Get from Kenya to Uganda?
Morning: One last sunrise game drive (around 6:30 AM). This is a prime time to spot predators like cheetahs or hyenas who are active in the cool morning air. After, you'll have breakfast and check out of your lodge.
Afternoon: Transfer back to Nairobi. This will be a 5-6 hour drive or a 1-hour flight from your airstrip back to Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).
Evening: Catch your 1.5-hour regional flight from NBO to Entebbe, Uganda (EBB). Upon arrival, your new Ugandan guide or a hotel shuttle will transfer you to your guesthouse in Entebbe, a peaceful city on the shores of Lake Victoria.
Day 5-6: What is Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Really Like?
Day 5: Journey to Bwindi
Morning: This is a long travel day, and you must take the flight to make the 10-day itinerary work.
By Air (Recommended): Your guide will take you to Entebbe (EBB) for your 1-hour 10-minute domestic flight to the Kihihi Airstrip (KHX). This saves you an entire day of driving.
(Not Recommended): The drive from Entebbe to Bwindi is a 9-10 hour scenic but exhausting journey.
Afternoon: You'll be met at Kihihi Airstrip by your lodge's driver for the 1.5 to 2-hour transfer to your lodge on the edge of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Settle in and feel the cool mountain air.
Evening: Early dinner at your lodge. Your main activity is preparing for tomorrow: lay out your hiking clothes, charge your camera batteries, and pack your daypack with a rain jacket, gloves, and water. Get to bed early.
Day 6: The Ultimate Gorilla Trek
Morning: After a very early breakfast (around 6:30 AM), you'll drive to the park headquarters for a 7:30 AM briefing. Here, you'll be assigned to a gorilla family (based on your fitness level) and meet your guides. You will learn the rules: no flash photography, keep 10 meters distance, stay quiet, and you cannot trek if you are sick. You can (and should) hire a local porter here to carry your bag and help you on the trail.
Afternoon: The trek begins! You'll hike through the dense, muddy, and magical "impenetrable" forest. The trek can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on where the gorillas are. The trackers are already out, finding the family for you.
The "Gorilla Hour": The moment you find them, your guide will log the time. You get exactly one precious, unforgettable hour to sit quietly and watch the family. You'll see babies playing, mothers nursing, and the huge silverback keeping watch. It is a life-changing experience.
Evening: You'll be tired, muddy, and ecstatic. After trekking back, you'll receive your gorilla trekking certificate. Return to your lodge to clean up, celebrate with a drink, and have a well-deserved dinner.
Rwanda vs. Uganda: Which is Cheaper for Gorilla Trekking?
You might wonder why we chose Uganda over Rwanda for the trek. The simple answer: cost.
Uganda (Bwindi): A gorilla permit costs $800 (as of 2024/2025). The trekking is challenging, and it's a longer journey from its international airport (9-10 hours drive or an extra domestic flight).
Rwanda (Volcanoes NP): A gorilla permit costs $1,500. The trekking is generally a bit easier, and it's only a 2-3 hour drive from the capital, Kigali.
For this multi-country trip, the $700 saving makes Uganda the smart choice.
Day 7-8: What Are the Must-See Sites in Kigali?
Day 7: Border Crossing to Rwanda
Morning: After a more relaxed breakfast, you'll check out and begin the scenic drive south towards the Rwandan border.
Afternoon: You'll arrive at the Cyanika or Katuna border. Your guide will walk you through the process: you'll get your passport stamped to exit Uganda, walk across the border, and get stamped into Rwanda. Your EATV makes this smooth. You'll meet your new Rwandan guide and vehicle here.
Evening: The 2-3 hour drive from the border to the capital, Kigali, is beautiful, showcasing why Rwanda is "the Land of a Thousand Hills." Check into your hotel and explore a local restaurant for dinner.
Day 8: Exploring Kigali's Heart
Morning: Today is for understanding Rwanda's past and present. Your first activity is a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This is a profoundly moving, heartbreaking, and essential experience to understand the 1994 genocide and the country's incredible journey of reconciliation.
Afternoon: Shift focus to the city's vibrant present. Your next activity is a complete contrast: explore the colorful, chaotic Kimironko Market, a busy local market where you can buy everything from fabrics to spices. After, visit the Inema Arts Center to see work from Rwanda's top contemporary artists.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Kigali's excellent restaurants (e.g., in the Kiyovu district).
Day 9: What's a Good Day Trip from Kigali?
Morning: You have two great options for your last full day.
Lake Kivu: Take the 2.5-hour drive to Gisenyi, a town on the shores of Lake Kivu, one of Africa's Great Lakes. The main activity is hiring a boat to visit the nearby islands or simply relaxing by the shore.
Local Culture: Stay in Kigali and take a local cooking class (often with a women's cooperative), or go on a coffee-tasting tour to a nearby plantation to learn the "bean-to-cup" process.
Afternoon: Continue your chosen activity. If you went to Lake Kivu, you'll enjoy lunch with a view of the lake before making the 2.5-hour drive back to Kigali.
Evening: Enjoy a final farewell dinner to celebrate your whirlwind East African adventure.
Day 10: Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping in Kigali
Morning: Enjoy a final Rwandan coffee and a delicious breakfast. Your activity today depends on your flight schedule. If you have time, do some last-minute souvenir shopping at the Caplaki Craft Village, a good one-stop shop for masks, baskets, and fabrics.
Afternoon: Transfer to Kigali International Airport (KGL) for your flight home. (Remember to be at the airport 3 hours before your international flight).
How Much Does a 10-Day Trip to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda Cost?
This is not a budget trip. The biggest fixed costs are:
Gorilla Permit: $800 (Uganda)
Regional & Domestic Flights: $400 - $700 (for NBO-EBB and EBB-Kihihi)
International Flights: Varies greatly.
Excluding international flights, a mid-range budget for this 10-day trip (including accommodation, park fees, internal flights, and food) would be approximately $3,500 to $5,000 USD per person.
What to Pack for a Safari and Gorilla Trek?
For the Safari: Light, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige, green). Avoid bright colors and camouflage. Pack a warm jacket for chilly mornings/evenings.
For Gorilla Trekking: Long-sleeved shirt and pants (to protect from insects/nettles), waterproof hiking boots with good grip, gaiters (to cover your boots/pants), a rain jacket, and gardening gloves (to grab onto vegetation).
Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent (with DEET), a good camera, binoculars, and a portable power bank.
Is It Safe to Travel in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda?
Yes, these countries are generally safe for tourists. Rwanda, in particular, is renowned for its safety and cleanliness. As with travel anywhere, you should use common sense:
Don't walk alone at night in cities.
Keep your valuables secure.
Use reputable, pre-booked tour operators.
Listen to your guides, especially around wildlife.
Your Unforgettable East African Journey Awaits
This 10-day itinerary is a whirlwind, but it delivers three of the most profound travel experiences on the planet. From the wide-open plains of the Masai Mara to the dense jungles home to the mountain gorillas, this journey is unforgettable. If you’re planning a longer trip, you can also explore Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda Itinerary 14-Day African Safari for an even deeper East African experience.
What part of this East African adventure are you most excited about?
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